Catering Manager - Corporate Events

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 340,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance incentives

Travel allowances

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking an experienced Catering Manager to oversee the planning and execution of corporate catering events. You will be the primary liaison for clients, translating visions into exceptional culinary experiences and ensuring service excellence across all functions.

The role requires strong coordination with chefs, service staff, and suppliers, plus robust budgeting, menu development, and regulatory compliance to deliver flawless events and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Experience in catering management or related hospitality roles.
• Strong client liaison abilities and communication skills.
• Experience with budgeting, costing menus and supplier negotiations.
• Ability to coordinate with chefs, service staff and vendors for seamless event execution.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end catering from client consultation to post-event follow-up.
• Develop customized menus and proposals with clients and culinary team.
• Coordinate with chefs, staff, and external vendors for seamless event execution.
• Manage budgets, cost menus, negotiate with suppliers, control expenses.
• Ensure health, safety, and hygiene compliance for food service.
• Conduct site inspections and venue assessments for event logistics.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Client relationship mgmt

Budget management

Menu planning

Vendor negotiation

Event planning

Multitasking

Event planning software

Tools

Event planning software

CRM software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic event management company in Port Elizabeth , is seeking an experienced and organized Catering Manager to oversee the planning and execution of corporate catering events. You will be the primary point of contact for clients, translating their vision into exceptional culinary experiences. This role requires excellent client liaison skills, a keen understanding of catering logistics, and the ability to manage budgets, menus, and external suppliers effectively. You will ensure flawless service delivery, client satisfaction, and adherence to company standards for all catered functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire catering process from initial client consultation to post-event follow-up.
• Develop customized menus and proposals in collaboration with clients and the culinary team.
• Coordinate with chefs, service staff, and external vendors to ensure smooth event execution.
• Oversee budget management, including costing menus, negotiating with suppliers, and controlling expenses.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and hygiene regulations for food service.
• Conduct site inspections and venue assessments to plan event logistics effectively.

Requirements

• Proven experience in catering management, event planning, or a related hospitality role.
• Excellent interpersonal and client relationship management skills.
• Strong understanding of menu planning, food preparation, and event service logistics.
• Experience in budget management and supplier negotiation.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in relevant software for event planning and client management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Allowances for travel and client entertainment.
• Opportunity to work with a diverse range of corporate clients.
• Professional development and training programs.
• A supportive team environment focused on success and client satisfaction.